How do I avoid triggering a bounty while robbing in Valentine?

Avoiding a bounty while robbing in Valentine requires careful planning, stealth, and understanding of the game''s mechanics. Valentine is a bustling town with many witnesses and lawmen, making it a high-risk location for criminal activities. However, with the right approach, you can minimize your chances of being identified and pursued.\n\nFirst, always wear a mask or bandana to conceal your identity. This is crucial because witnesses and lawmen will recognize Arthur Morgan if his face is exposed. Equip the mask before committing any crime by opening the weapon wheel, navigating to the ''Horse'' section, and selecting the mask. Note that wearing a mask alone won''t fully prevent a bounty if you''re seen committing a crime, but it significantly reduces the chances of being identified.\n\nNext, choose your targets wisely. Avoid robbing in crowded areas like the saloon or the general store during peak hours. Instead, focus on isolated targets such as travelers on the outskirts of town or individuals in less populated areas. For example, the back alleys near the stables or the outskirts of Valentine are ideal spots for discreet robberies. Always survey the area for potential witnesses before acting.\n\nWhen robbing someone, use the ''Antagonize'' option to intimidate them into compliance. This reduces the likelihood of them fighting back or alerting others. Approach your target slowly, aim your weapon, and press the appropriate button to initiate the robbery. Demand money or items quickly, and avoid lingering in the area afterward. If the target resists, consider fleeing rather than escalating the situation, as gunfire or violence will attract lawmen.\n\nIf a witness spots you, immediately de-escalate the situation. Use the ''Defuse'' option to calm them down or threaten them to prevent them from reporting the crime. If they still run to report you, chase them down and either intimidate them into silence or, as a last resort, eliminate them discreetly. Be cautious, as killing witnesses can lead to more severe consequences if discovered.\n\nTo further reduce your chances of triggering a bounty, avoid using your horse during the robbery. Horses can be identified by lawmen, and riding away on a recognizable mount increases the risk of being tracked. Instead, escape on foot through alleys or wooded areas, and only call your horse once you''re a safe distance away.\n\nFinally, if you do trigger a bounty, leave the area immediately and avoid engaging with lawmen. Pay off your bounty at a post office as soon as possible to prevent further complications. Alternatively, you can wait for the heat to die down, but this may take time and limit your ability to return to Valentine.\n\nIn summary, avoiding a bounty in Valentine requires stealth, careful target selection, and quick escapes. Always wear a mask, choose isolated targets, and de-escalate situations with witnesses. By following these steps, you can successfully rob in Valentine without attracting unwanted attention from the law.